Daniel Deronda · Chapter
XXV explained
Lush observes Grandcourt's indecisive nature and attempts to gauge his intentions regarding Gwendolen.
What happens
Lush observes Grandcourt's indecisive nature and attempts to gauge his intentions regarding Gwendolen. Grandcourt returns to Diplow, and Lush gathers information about Gwendolen's family misfortunes, uncertain how Grandcourt will react. The chapter explores Grandcourt's egoism and Lush's self-serving calculations.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Control
Grandcourt's egoism and Lush's manipulation highlight the dynamics of power and control in their relationship.
Social Class and Privilege
The chapter examines class distinctions through Grandcourt's wealth, Lush's servile position, and Deronda's pride in his birth.
Fate and Choice
Lush's uncertainty about Grandcourt's decisions and Grandcourt's fitful obstinacy reflect the interplay of fate and choice.
Characters to notice
- Lush
Lush observes Grandcourt's behavior and plans to hinder a marriage between Grandcourt and Gwendolen, fearing trouble for himself.
- Henleigh Grandcourt
Grandcourt displays fitful obstinacy and egoism; he delays departure from Leubronn and eventually returns to Diplow.
- Gwendolen Harleth
Gwendolen is discussed as the subject of Grandcourt's potential interest; her family's misfortunes are noted by Lush.
- Sir Hugo Mallinger
Sir Hugo converses with Lush about Grandcourt's affairs and shows interest in the potential marriage.
- Lady Mallinger
Lady Mallinger has a brief interaction with Grandcourt, misinterpreting his seriousness as a lack of humor.
- Daniel Deronda
Deronda exchanges civilities with Grandcourt, feeling pride in not showing resentment over their relative positions.
Key passages
“But to know Grandcourt was to doubt what he would do in any particular case.”
Understanding Grandcourt meant being uncertain about his actions in any situation.
Highlights Grandcourt's unpredictable nature.
“An imaginary envy, the idea that others feel their comparative deficiency, is the ordinary cortège of egoism.”
Egoism is typically accompanied by the belief that others envy you.
Reflects on Grandcourt's egoism and his perception of Deronda.